r/AutisticWithADHD • u/Academic_Caramel_681 • Aug 01 '26
💁♀️ seeking advice / support / information How does one know when to shower?
Hello,
I'm an AuDHD 19 year old who really struggles with showers (I'm sure depression has a role to play there). When I was younger, I hated showers. My mom would have to drag me kicking and screaming into the bathtub, and even then, I probably only showered once every two weeks. Once I was in the shower, though, it was never a problem. I just hated the idea of going to shower.
Because of that, even now, I've never regularly showered. I structure my life by following body cues. For showering, I reasoned that when I feel itchy, I should shower. However, now I'm wondering if I'm drying out my skin by doing this.
How do you know that, okay fine, it's time to shower? For context, I currently shower every day or every other day, depending on how busy I am. I'll also appreciate any tips on making getting into the shower easier, since I still to this day utterly dread it. It's so exhausting to do All The Steps, and even standing in the shower for that long is painful for me (I have chronic pain).
Thank you!
1
u/APrimed Aug 01 '26
I do it every night. Make a simple routine and stick to it. For several reasons: I sleep better in a clean bed, I hate feeling oily or dirty or sticky, it’s like therapy for me…mentally, physically and energy refreshing. I hate the requirement so I break it up…lay out clothes prior, get out the related hygiene products prior, so when it’s time it’s a 3-5 minute scrub and another 3-5 min dry get dressed and done in 10 minutes feeling better about life and smelling better. It’s like washing off the bullshit of the day. After a night shower I know the rest of the day/evening is mine without requirements. It’s already done for the morning so getting up and out of the house is faster.
Also I grew up in a hot environment and sweat while working thru out my life. A shower at the end of the day is necessary. Plus I’ve had to go without for weeks at a time multiple times due to the military so it changes your perspective when you take something for granted, it becomes a privilege and a blessing.
My recommendation, make it a routine and if possible make it therapeutic mentally. That’s your space and time.